Sheffield home roof costs of £67m ‘too high’ - says resident

Ellen Beardmore

An angry resident has slammed Sheffield Council’s decision to spend £67 million repairing the roofs of its homes across the city.

Richard Perks, of Milnrow View, Parson Cross, said the council should have tried to find a cheaper offer - and used a local firm - to repair the roofs of 31,000 houses.

Richard Perks

A letter sent out to tenants said the preferred contractor was Burnley-based BAAS Construction, and that the total cost of the work would reach £67 million.

Mr Perks will also have to pay 10 per cent of the £2,438 cost of repairs to his block of flats, as he owns his property.

The retired computer consultant said: “It seems like a lot of money considering the council is closing libraries and scrimping and saving on every penny.

“Why couldn’t they have used a Sheffield company when there are so many people in the city walking around without any work?”

Mr Perks has also complained about the replacement of the entry door system at his flats. He says the £13,734 cost is unnecessary as it will be almost ‘exactly’ the same.

The council said it was making a ‘major investment’ of £90m in the next five years to renew roof tiles, carry out roof repairs, and replace rainwater features like guttering. It is looking at Mr Perks’ concerns about the door system.

Coun Harry Harpham, cabinet member for homes, said the council had to follow EU guidelines on awarding contracts, and one of the two firms doing the work is based in Sheffield.

He added: “Many roofs in the city have not been touched since they were first built over 70 years ago, apart from patch repairs. We are spending too much money on responsive repairs to keep residents’ homes safe and dry when wholesale replacement is what’s needed.

“The programme will fit UPVC materials at high level to improve the appearance of homes as well as save on painting costs.

“We scrutinised bids to make sure we get value for money and are pleased to make improvements.”